Sugarcreek council sets 2026 budget, addresses housing and utilities

At a Jan. 5 village council meeting, Mayor Walt Wilson administered the oath of office to Jason Hamsher, Matt Miller, Tony Martire and Tom Brown as Sugarcreek moved into the new year with leadership and budget decisions that will touch local services, housing and infrastructure. Incumbents Hamsher and Miller retained seats, and Hamsher was named council president pro tem.

The council approved permanent appropriations for 2026 totaling $14,604,827 in all funds, setting the financial framework for municipal operations, capital projects and service delivery through the year. That vote frames priorities for public safety, road maintenance and utilities at a time when small communities like Sugarcreek balance heritage tourism and residential needs.

Public health and housing safety drew attention when council discussed asbestos and lead survey work at a village apartment building. Samples were expected by Jan. 12, with abatement proposals due Jan. 16. Those steps could lead to repair plans and costs that affect tenants and the village budget; residents in affected buildings should watch for notices about testing and possible relocation or temporary disruptions while work is planned and carried out.

Plans for living quarters at the fire station advanced in concept stage, with cost estimates on materials and donated labor presented to council. Officials said they are still awaiting an electrical estimate before firming up total project costs. Completing living quarters could influence firefighter staffing and response capability, while donated labor will help control expenses.

Infrastructure items included reports on two recently repaired waterline breaks, highlighting ongoing maintenance needs in the municipal water system. Repairs restored service but underscore the village’s aging infrastructure and the importance of timely investment to avoid future disruptions.

Land use and zoning issues moved forward, with readings and committee progress on short-term rental regulations and zoning for an annexed parcel. A public hearing on short-term rentals has been scheduled for the council meeting on Feb. 2, giving homeowners, neighbors and local businesses a chance to weigh in on rules that may affect vacation rentals and local lodging options in Sugarcreek’s Little Switzerland tourism market.

Council also passed a resolution permitting public auction sales of obsolete village property during 2026 and announced legislative committee assignments for the year. The next council meeting is set for Feb. 2, where residents can attend the public hearing on short-term rentals and follow up on project funding and timelines.

The takeaway? Keep an eye on Jan. 12 and Jan. 16 for the apartment survey and abatement timeline, mark Feb. 2 for the short-term rental hearing, and stay alert to notices about water or service interruptions. If you care about zoning, firefighter housing or how village dollars are spent, plan to attend the next meeting or contact village hall for details. Our two cents? Show up, ask the practical questions, and keep Sugarcreek both safe and welcoming for residents and visitors alike.